Here’s what Caleb Wilson had to say after the win against OSU

The North Carolina Tar Heels’ narrow win over the Ohio State Buckeyes in Atlanta was far from pleasant, but it was revealing. especially when it comes to singling out freshmen Caleb Wilson.

The Tar Heels appeared in control midway through the second half before allowing the Buckeyes to mount a comeback, forcing UNC to rely on execution, composure and toughness late in the game, and Wilson embodied all three.

After the game, Wilson spoke with CBS Sports’ Jenny Dell about the final moments and what the win meant to a North Carolina team still forging its identity. Asked what the team highlighted in the final timeout and how a win like this affects the program, Wilson answered with confidence about UNC’s trajectory.

“I mean, it just shows us that we’re here, you know what I’m saying, it’s a great team to play against and I feel like we’re definitely on our way,” Caleb Wilson said.

Wilson also highlighted the importance of Seth Trimble’s late presence, especially defensively and in clutch situations. When asked how Trimble’s return changed things on the floorWilson emphasized trust and reliability.

“He’s a great defensive player, you know we’re going to go to him down the stretch and he’s going to finish the game, that’s what we got for him,” Seth Trimble’s Wilson said.

The moment had extra meaning for Wilson, who played in front of friends and family in Atlanta. Asked if the hometown crowd added motivation, Wilson didn’t hesitate.

“Yeah, sure. I can’t leave without a win,” added Wilson. “And my teammates helped me do it. We rallied until the end and we got the win. That’s all that matters.”

Caleb Wilson was a FORCE against Ohio State. 20 points (9-16 FG)
15 rebounds (career high)

He caught up @JenniDell_ after the game. pic.twitter.com/S7DT4m6HEH

— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) December 20, 2025

Ohio State erased a double-digit deficit in the second half and briefly took the lead late, but UNC responded behind a layup by Trimble, a timely steal and a dunk by Henry Veesar. Wilson then sealed the game with the decisive play – a last-second block to preserve the one-point win.

Wilson finished with 20 points and a game-high 15 rebounds, delivering his most complete performance of the season on the big stage. While North Carolina showed vulnerability down the stretch, the ability to the high-pressure closing of the game emphasized its growth.

The Tar Heels now return to Chapel Hill for their final non-conference matchup against East Carolina, carrying momentum and lessons from a win that tested their resolve.